terms Flashcards
Summary Offence
A minor criminal offense typically heard in a Magistrates’ Court, such as petty theft or disorderly conduct.
Indictable offence
A serious criminal offense, such as murder or armed robbery, which is typically heard in a higher court like the County or Supreme Court.
CCO
A sentence given by a court that allows an offender to serve their sentence within the community under specified conditions, such as community service or rehabilitation programs.
Presumption of Innocence
The legal principle that an individual is considered innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Civil Law
The branch of law that deals with disputes between individuals or organizations, often involving claims for damages or injunctions.
Justice
The principle of fairness and equity in the administration of law, ensuring that individuals receive their due rights and protections under the legal system.
Adversarial System
A legal system where two opposing parties present their cases before an impartial judge or jury who decides the outcome based on the evidence and arguments presented.
Defamation
The act of making false statements that harm the reputation of an individual or organization, typically through libel (written defamation) or slander (spoken defamation).
VCAT
A tribunal in the state of Victoria, Australia, that resolves disputes and makes administrative decisions in various areas, including tenancy disputes, consumer matters, and guardianship.
Summons
A legal document issued by a court that commands an individual to appear before the court at a specified time and place, often as a defendant or witness in a legal proceeding.
Damages
Monetary compensation awarded by a court to a plaintiff in a civil lawsuit as compensation for injury, loss, or harm suffered due to the defendant’s actions.
Precedent
A legal principle or decision established in a previous case that serves as a guide or authority for deciding similar cases in the future.
Affirmation
A solemn declaration made by a witness or defendant in court to tell the truth, similar to an oath but without reference to a religious deity.
Subpoena
A legal document issued by a court that compels an individual to testify as a witness or produce evidence in a legal proceeding under penalty of law for non-compliance.
Strict liability crime
A criminal offense where guilt is established by committing the prohibited act, regardless of intent or knowledge of wrongdoing, such as traffic violations or certain environmental offenses.
